BOSTON - The Northeast Microelectronics Coalition (NEMC) Hub, consisting of more than 150 member organizations primarily located in eight northeast states, has been mobilized in response to the federal government’s launch of the ‘Microelectronics Commons Call for Projects.’ The process is executed through the National Security Technology Accelerator, or NSTXL, the organization managing the execution of the eight (8) Hubs for the “CHIPS and Science Act-funded national network for onshore, microelectronics hardware-focused prototyping, laboratory to fabrication (lab-to fab) transition of semiconductor technologies and workforce training”[1] in the semiconductor sector.
As per the official Call for Projects, the DoD has estimated about $280 million in the first year will be awarded for projects, with $160 million anticipated for project awards in years two through four, bringing the potential project funding to a total of $760 million.
The NEMC Hub and its members are currently evaluating project response opportunities outlined in the Call for Projects, actively seeking potential submissions across all six of the technology focus areas, including:
- Secure Edge/Internet of Things Computing;
- 5G/6G Technology;
- Artificial Intelligence Hardware;
- Quantum Technology;
- Electromagnetic Warfare; and
- Commercial Leap Ahead.
“This is an opportunity for companies and research organizations across the Northeast to partner with our Hub and put forth our most competitive proposals to support the transition of critical microelectronics technologies for the U.S. Department of Defense,” said Ben Linville-Engler, the interim director of the NEMC Hub. “Based on meetings with our members, we believe the northeast has a strong case to pursue projects in each of the six priority technology focus areas, given the mix of leading companies, universities, and research centers in our membership and the strength of our regional defense and innovation ecosystems.”
NSTXL launched the national ‘Call for Projects’ on December 18, 2023 with a proposal deadline of February 28, 2024. NEMC requires that organizations interested in submitting a proposal must be a member of the NEMC Hub.
###